• Source:JND
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Brazil’s President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva signed a bill on Monday that restricts the use of smartphones in schools, aligning with a global trend towards limiting device usage in educational settings. The bill will take effect in February, impacting students at elementary and high schools across the South American nation.

The new legislation establishes a legal framework aimed at ensuring students only use smartphones in specific situations, such as emergencies or educational purposes. Additionally, students who have disabilities and require devices for support will be allowed to continue using them under proper supervision.

Education Minister Camilo Santana emphasised the challenges posed by early exposure to online activities, noting that children are becoming increasingly connected at younger ages. "As children go online at earlier stages, it's becoming more difficult for parents to monitor their activities," Santana told journalists in the capital, Brasília. He further argued that restricting smartphones at schools will provide a safer and more controlled environment for students to focus on their education.

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Schools To Provide Alternative Tech Resources

Schools must provide alternative technology like computers or tablets to support learning, and those failing to comply may face penalties. The law aims to address issues such as distractions, lower academic performance, and cyberbullying. President Lula emphasised the importance of maintaining human values and over-reliance on technology. “We cannot allow humanism to be replaced by algorithms,” said President Lula.

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Brazil’s initiative is part of a broader effort to adapt educational practices in the digital age, while still ensuring that students remain engaged in a conducive learning environment. By limiting smartphone use, educators hope to foster a more focused and interactive classroom experience, where teachers can more effectively guide students without the interruptions and temptations of constant device use.